Final answer:
The smallest tidal range is associated with the First Quarter and Third Quarter phases of the Moon, due to the Moon and the Sun's gravitational forces working at odds during these periods.
Step-by-step explanation:
The phases of the Moon associated with the smallest tidal range are the First Quarter and Third Quarter phases (Option C). During these phases, the Moon and the Sun are at a right angle to Earth and their gravitational forces work at odds, leading to a lower-than-average gravitational pull on Earth's oceans, which translates into smaller tides.
This is in contrast to the Full Moon and New Moon phases when the Sun, Moon, and Earth are aligned, which causes their respective gravitational pulls to add together, resulting in higher tides (also known as spring tides). In the First Quarter and Third Quarter phases, however, the gravitational effects are mitigated, resulting in the lowest high tides and the highest low tides, often referred to as neap tides.
Learn more about Moon Phases and Tides